RSPCA calls for Grand National changes
Image - Richard Humphrey
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has called for changes to the Grand National to improve safety after the deaths of two horses, According to Pete and Synchronised, at this year's event. The call comes after a review by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) concluded that “factors one could neither have foreseen nor prevented were prevalent in the events that led to the two horses sustaining their injuries."
After taking advice from the equine inspector's team who were present at the jumps and horseracing consultant David Muir, the RSPCA has called for:
- A reduction in the number of starters to include only experienced jockeys and horses
- The removal of Becher's Brook
- A re-design of the cores of fences
- Levelling of drop landings
- Changes to the start
- The automatic withdrawal of horses which bolt and unseat their jockeys
- An urgent review of communications and positioning of horse catchers
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
